With its lovely leaded glass windows, richly burnished woods and luxurious fabrics, the inside of Blantyre is exactly what you would expect upon seeing the outside of the building. In the Main House, there are overstuffed chairs, fresh flowers, a light-filled music room, and rooms for private dining — all designed with the comfort of our guests in mind. The heart of the house, the baronial Main Hall on the first floor, is an eclectic mix of period pieces and treasured heirlooms specially assembled under owner Ann Fitzpatrick Brown and her mother Jane's discerning eyes.
Eight exquisite guest bedrooms and suites, many with fireplaces, all with their own unique personality, are located on the second floor.
Dining is a very special event at Blantyre. Late every afternoon, the Main House undergoes a lovely transformation as we prepare for the delightful dining experience to come that evening. Linens are brought out, tables are set with sterling silver, fine china, crystal, and fresh flowers. Beautiful music fills the air and candles are lit. Under the knowing eye of Chef Christopher Brooks, the kitchen is a hive of activity as the finest ingredients are used to create a memorable dining experience.
When you arrive, you can enjoy a pre-dinner glass of Champagne and canapés on the covered terrace or in the Main Hall. Or sample one of their rich red wines in the Music Room. Then adjourn to the dining room where your delicious entrée will be served by our gracious staff.
Should your evening plans include a performance at Tanglewood or Jacob's Pillow, you may wish to postpone dessert. Upon your return, coffee, an assortment of cheeses and a beautifully prepared dessert can be served in the Music Room.
History
Robert Paterson was introduced to the Lenox area in the late 1890's by his friend John Sloane (of W&J Sloane). Lenox already had many great estates, prompting the area to be known as "the queen of inland resorts" or, as Cleveland Amory wrote, "the Switzerland of America."
Paterson acquired the Lenox estate of 220 acres called "Highlawn" from the Dorr family. He tore down the modest house, keeping the outbuildings. Hence, the Carriage House Stables and Potting Shed date from the late 19th century. He set about building a property on a grand scale, although the initial plans were purported to be drawn on the back of an envelope by the architect, Robert Henderson Robertson. Robert Paterson's concept was for no less than a castle of "feudal architectural features," replete with towers, turrets and gargoyles. The house was modeled after his mother's ancestral home in Blantyre, Scotland. Construction began in 1901, at times employing over 300 people on the grounds and buildings.
The main house was furnished in the English style with all the furniture being brought in from England. The family used the house for the summer and fall and entertained frequently, as was the fashion in those days. There were garden parties with musicians imported from New York and grand dinner-dances with each party becoming more and more lavish, befitting the "Gilded Age."
When the end of the era came some 15 to 20 years later, hastened by the introduction of the income tax, so, too, ended a lifestyle that was never to be repeated. Over the next 60 years Blantyre went through several transitions, including a particularly destructive period in the 1970's.
In 1980, Jack and Jane Fitzpatrick fell in love with the abandoned Blantyre and organized to purchase it for their daughter, Ann Fitzpatrick Brown, who became the seventh owner. Determined to restore it to its former elegance, Ann reopened Blantyre in 1981, after extensive renovation. Blantyre achieved the vision of the Fitzpatricks - a beautiful country house, recognized as one of the finest hotels in the world, where guests can come and stay and experience the life and service of a bygone era.
Beginning in 2000, Ann and the staff of Blantyre planned and worked toward fully winterizing Blantyre. In May, 2005 Blantyre opened its doors for the first time in 25 years as a year round operation, with as well "the potting shed", Blantyre's cozy and intimate spa.
